Shepherd
One who herds sheep — a boy name of English origin
Popularity of Shepherd in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Shepherd
Shepherd is an English occupational surname referring to one who tends and herds sheep, from the Old English "sceaphierde," combining "sceap" (sheep) and "hierde" (herder). The image of the shepherd carries deep symbolic weight in Christian tradition, evoking guidance, protection, and care, as reflected in the biblical Twenty-Third Psalm. As a given name, Shepherd has emerged in the 21st century as part of a wider trend of occupational and pastoral surnames becoming first names, joining the ranks of Hunter, Mason, and Cooper.
Shepherd Around the World
Shepherd is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Shepherd
Famous People Named Shepherd
- Shepherd Mead — American author of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying
- Shepherd Leffler — American politician and early US Representative from Iowa
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Sibling Name Ideas for Shepherd
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Shepherd mean?
Shepherd is a boy name of English origin meaning "One who herds sheep." Shepherd is an English occupational surname referring to one who tends and herds sheep, from the Old English "sceaphierde," combining "sceap" (sheep) and "hierde" (herder). The image of the shepherd carries deep symbolic weight in Christian tradition, evoking guidance, protection, and care, as reflected in the biblical Twenty-Third Psalm.
How do you pronounce Shepherd?
Shepherd is pronounced SHEP-erd. Common variations include Shepard, Sheppard, Shep.
Is Shepherd a boy name?
Yes, Shepherd is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Shep.
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